Carer of the Year nomination – Denise Owen-Simpson and Paul Simpson
Carer of the Year nomination – Denise Owen-Simpson and Paul Simpson
A sign on the back of a North Staffordshire bus was the inspiration for a married couple to start a long foster caring journey themselves.
Denise Owen-Simpson and Paul Simpson, from Newchapel, already had one grown-up child of their own and were contemplating fostering youngsters when they spotted an advertisement on a bus which gave them the gentle push they needed to take the plunge.
Seventeen years later the couple, now aged 67 and 68, have cared for around 30 youngsters including babies and say that it’s the best decision that they’ve ever made.
Denise and Paul love and support every child they have taken care of and whilst it can be emotionally hard to move a child on to adoption or back to their birth family they always remain professional but show care and love with each transition.
They have been nominated in the Carer of the Year category of the Your Heroes Awards by Marie Plant, the Fostering Recruitment Officer at Stoke-on-Trent City Council.
Marie said: “Their dedication and commitment to foster cannot be understated. It’s hard to put into words what an absolute amazing foster carers they truly are. This is why they truly deserve a nomination. They show empathy in their role each and every day.”
Denise and Paul throw themselves headlong into providing a loving, nurturing environment. Paul is Vice Chair of the Foster Carers Association while Denise is also a member and heavily involved. The couple attend any fostering social events, helping to prepare, serve the buffet, clean up – whatever needs to be done.
Paul works in hospitality on a self-employed basis and tailors his workload and schedule based on the needs of children in their care.
Denise said: “We looked after our parents during ill health and have always looked to put others first. Our daughter has exactly the same outlook on life as us.
“We think sharing our lives and the love we have with children who need a caring environment is a blessing and we absolutely love it. Of course it can have its challenging moments, but we wouldn’t change it for the world and would strongly advise others thinking of fostering to do it.”